TechCrunch is shining a spotlight on women academics in the AI field with a series of interviews highlighting their contributions to the AI revolution. In a recent profile, Rachel Coldicutt, founder of Careful Industries, is featured for her work on the social impact of technology. Coldicutt has worked with companies like Salesforce and the Royal Academy of Engineering and received an OBE for her work in digital technology. She discusses her journey in tech since the 1990s and her proud moments in shaping the AI policy and social impact assessment landscape.
Coldicutt navigates the challenges of a male-dominated tech industry by prioritizing equity in her organization and supporting other women in the field. She encourages women entering the AI field to seek out peers for support and challenge the status quo in hiring practices to build a more inclusive environment. Coldicutt also emphasizes the importance of engaging with issues such as environmental impact, social justice, and ethical use of AI as it continues to evolve.
As AI becomes more prevalent in society, Coldicutt urges users to be aware of the environmental and economic consequences of current AI models, as well as the potential impact on everyday interactions. She stresses the need for innovation that prioritizes community governance and societal benefit to avoid negative outcomes. By championing responsible development and thoughtful considerations of AI’s implications, Coldicutt hopes to shape a more equitable and sustainable future for the technology.
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